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[Type 4 echovirus meningitis in childhood. Epidemiologic and clinical aspects apropos of an epidemiologic outbreak]
J J Lasarte Velillas1, F de Juan Martín, M Omeñaca Teres
1Sección de Infecciosos, Hospital Miguel Servet, Zaragoza.
Abstract:
In the first half of 1988 we observed 13 cases of lymphocytic meningitis from which echovirus type 4 was isolated in the CSF. We found a higher infection rate in the 6-9 years old group (54%) and in the masculine sex (69%). Almost all of the cases occurred during the springtime. The clinical and CSF characteristics of this epidemic do not differ much from those that have appeared in the literature. Throughout 1988, in our hospital, 46 cases of lymphocytic meningitis took place and in 20 of them an etiologic diagnosis was done. We think that the introduction of enterovirus cultures can help to know the etiology of many of these cases of meningitis since this virus is responsible for a great part of them.
Insights
In 1988, echovirus type 4 caused lymphocytic meningitis, primarily affecting 6-9 year olds and males during spring. Enterovirus cultures are crucial for diagnosing this common cause of meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
Context:
- Lymphocytic meningitis is a significant neurological condition.
- Echovirus infections can cause aseptic meningitis, particularly in children.
- The study focuses on a specific echovirus type 4 outbreak in 1988.
Purpose:
- To report on an echovirus type 4 outbreak causing lymphocytic meningitis.
- To identify demographic and seasonal patterns of the infection.
- To emphasize the importance of enterovirus diagnostics in meningitis cases.
Summary:
- 13 cases of echovirus type 4 meningitis were identified in early 1988.
- The infection predominantly affected males (69%) and children aged 6-9 years (54%).
- Most cases occurred in spring, with typical clinical and CSF findings.
Impact:
- Highlights echovirus type 4 as a notable cause of meningitis.
- Underscores the need for improved etiological diagnosis of meningitis.
- Suggests enterovirus culturing as a key diagnostic tool for meningitis.